The Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA), in collaboration with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), has launched the first-ever “Niveshak Shivir” in Pune, aimed at enhancing financial literacy and assisting investors in reclaiming unclaimed dividends and shares. The event witnessed participation from over 450 investors, marking a significant step toward investor empowerment and grievance redressal.
Key Highlights of Niveshak Shivir
- One-Stop Investor Assistance: The event provided solutions for unclaimed dividends over six years old, KYC updates, nomination details, and claim-related queries.
- Investor Search Facility: Attendees could check for unclaimed shares or dividends linked to their names or relatives.
- Industry Collaboration: Representatives from Market Infrastructure Institutions (MIIs), Registrars and Transfer Agents (RTAs), and Depositories offered hands-on guidance.
- Launch of Investor Guide: A simplified investor brochure by NSDL, titled Investor Guide to Claiming Unclaimed Shares and Dividends, was unveiled by IEPFA CEO Anita Shah Akella.
Impact on Investor Awareness
India currently has over 1.1 billion unclaimed shares, valued at approximately ₹1 lakh crore, alongside ₹6,000 crore in unclaimed dividends. The Niveshak Shivir initiative aims to streamline the claim process, ensuring transparency and accessibility for investors.
Future Plans
Following the success of the Pune event, IEPFA and SEBI plan to expand Niveshak Shivir nationwide, targeting cities with high volumes of unclaimed investor funds. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to financial inclusion and investor protection.
For more updates on investor education and financial literacy, stay tuned!
